The restaurant business is notoriously tough to break into, and a high percentage of restaurants never make it past their first couple of years in business. That’s why it’s so impressive that some of these establishments have survived for centuries. You’ll love the history and the food at these historic restaurants in Pennsylvania:

1. McGillin's Olde Ale House, Philadelphia
Facebook/McGillin's Olde Ale House
As the word "Olde" in its name implies, McGillin's is Philadelphia's oldest continuously operating tavern. Even though it's been serving beer and pub food for over 150 years, you can still count on McGillin's for a good time. To learn more, visit the website for McGillin's Olde Ale House in Philadelphia.
2. Duffy's Tavern, Boalsburg
Facebook/Duffy's Tavern
This historic tavern in Boalsburg was established in 1819, and it's still cozy after all these years. Plus, it's conveniently located only five minutes from Penn State. Check out the website for Duffy's Tavern to learn more.
3. Bube's Brewery, Mount Joy
www.bubesbrewery.com
In 1876 a young German immigrant named Alois Bube purchased a small brewery in Mount Joy. The brewery was closed right before Prohibition, but Bube's family kept everything intact over the decades following his death. It's now a bustling brewing complex offering everything from fine dining underground in The Catacombs to murder mystery dinners and ghost tours. To learn more, visit the website for Bube's Brewery.
4. King George II Inn, Bristol
Facebook/King George Inn
Established in 1681, King George II is the oldest continuously operating inn -- not just in Pennsylvania, but in the entire country. Tired travelers always need to eat, so we can only guess how many decades they've been serving up much-needed comfort food. Visit the website for King George II Inn to learn more.

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5. The General Warren Inne, Malvern
Facebook/The General Warren Inne
For a special occasion or event, the elegant General Warren Inne will not disappoint. This fine dining restaurant and historic B&B has also been a stage for important events over the years, doubling its charm. Check out The General Warren Inne's website to learn more.
6. Blue Bell Inn, Blue Bell
Facebook/Blue Bell Inn: The New Experience
Blue Bell Inn has welcomed weary guests since 1743. Back then it was called White Horse Inn and welcomed no other than George Washington himself. It became Blue Bell in 1796. You might think the inn would be named after its hometown, but this place was so influential that it was actually the other way around. Visit Blue Bell Inn's website to learn more.
7. Dobbin House Tavern, Gettysburg
Facebook/Dobbin House Tavern
Guests rave about the delectable dishes served in this delightful historic-home-turned-restaurant. The stone house dates back to 1776, and free tours are offered for curious guests. Check out Dobbin House Tavern's website to learn more.
8. Logan Inn, New Hope
Facebook/Logan Inn
This inn, which opened way back in 1727, claims to be one of the five oldest inns in the country. It now specializes in steak, seafood and New American dishes. To learn more, visit Logan Inn's website.
9. William Penn Inn, Gwynedd
www.williampenninn.com
This inn, established in 1714, now offers upscale dining, and it's an exceptional wedding venue. To learn more, visit William Penn Inn's website.

 

Have you visited any of these historic restaurants in Pennsylvania? Do you have any other favorites that have stood the test of time? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Want to take a walk down memory lane? Enjoy a meal at one of these nostalgic diners in Pennsylvania.

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historic restaurants in Pennsylvania

Elisa Regulski | November 29, 2020

What are the best nostalgic diners in Pennsylvania?

There are some truly amazing nostalgic diners in Pennsylvania that will whisk you back to the good old days. Donna’s Diner, located in Sharon, serves classic home-style eats inside a shiny and retro atmosphere. Whether you order a chili-covered coney dog or a thick and juicy burger, you’ll love every last bite. But be sure to save room for one of their epic milkshakes! No trip to a retro diner would be complete without a sugar rush. If you loved this place, you’ll also want to enjoy a meal at DJ’s Taste of the 50’s in Lancaster. Like its name suggests, this eatery is like a time capsule to the days of sock hops and poodle skirts. Listen to golden oldies tunes while devouring a mouthwatering meal. It doesn’t get much better than that.

What is the oldest restaurant in Pennsylvania?

The Stockyard Inn, located in Lancaster, is the oldest restaurant in Pennsylvania. Established in 1750, this eatery really knows how to whip up a memorable meal.

Are there any drive-in restaurants in Pennsylvania?

There are so many fun and exciting drive-in restaurants in Pennsylvania. If you’re looking for a delicious cheesesteak, head over to Boehringer's Drive-In. This retro establishment serves simple food at its finest. Save some room for an ice cream cone!

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Featured Addresses
McGillin's Olde Ale House, 1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
Duffy's Tavern, 113 E Main St, Boalsburg, PA 16827, USA
Bube's Brewery Dining & Entertainment, 102 N Market St, Mount Joy, PA 17552, USA
King George II Inn, 102 Radcliffe St, Bristol, PA 19007, USA
General Warren, 9 Old Lancaster Rd, Malvern, PA 19355, USA
601 W Skippack Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, USA
Dobbin House Tavern, 89 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA
1017 Dekalb Pike, Gwynedd, PA 19436, USA
Logan Inn, 10 W Ferry St, New Hope, PA 18938, USA